Spreading the Good News can feel daunting, but one of the easiest ways we can clearly signal our faith is by telling people that we enjoy going to church and then inviting them to see the warmth and life we find there.
The 28th of June is a doubly special day because as well as welcoming the Bishop of Cyprus and the Gulf, it has been chosen as our first official “Bring a Friend to Church Day”.
Of course you can bring a friend, neighbour or colleague to church at any time, but St Paul’s has set a specific date to encourage everyone to try this gentle form of outreach. It’s a great way to create a friendly ‘buzz’ that shows St Paul’s is a place where real people meet, get to know each other and form a lively community.
But how to make it happen? The next section offers some helpful suggestions – take a look!
A question for YOU
A good place to start is taking a moment to think about what YOU get out of coming to church. A moment of peaceful reflection in a hectic life? Inspiration? Connection with people? Hope? A sense of being part of something BIGGER? Whatever it may be, it’s a gift worth sharing.
This will encourage you and set the right intention for your approach. And remember, you are offering your invitee(s) an opportunity to experience things that can be very hard to find anywhere else, perhaps to discover what they have (often unconsciously) been looking for.
Next, identify 1-3 people to invite, and go for it today!
“What are you doing on Sunday 28th in the morning?” (Yes, it’s slightly sneaky checking availability before you outline the reason for the question)
“St Paul’s Anglican church is holding a “Bring a Friend To Church” day…and I hoped you might be free to come along too…and we could get coffee/lunch afterwards” (an incentive that builds your personal connection).
Boost their confidence
If they say “Yes” the next step is to ensure they feel welcomed and comfortable. So, you’ll need to give some key information:
- When to arrive (10.20am latest for comfort)
- Who will welcome them (can you meet at the door?)
- What to wear
- What to expect during the service (great music, and hymns, bible readings, a sermon and communion or blessing)
- What happens afterwards (coffee, wine, conversation)
A gentle reminder never hurts
“I’m looking forward to seeing you on Sunday, is there anything else you’d like to know before then?”
Make it a good experience
Everyone who will be in church on June 28th can help with this! The usual St Paul’s warm welcome plus even greater readiness to assist our visitors will work wonders.
A final thought – If you like coming to church and get something out of it, then lots of other people will too, even if they don’t know it yet. Inviting someone to experience this special place and time is a lovely way to show you care.
